Running a home-based photography business is an amazing dream. I get to create artworks that become an important part of my clients' lives. Just like anything in life, there are downfalls, though. When the commute to your job consists of walking across the hall, you don't get a lot of sunshine during the work week. I'm seriously lacking in Vitamin D and cabin fever can set in during the bleak midwinter. That's why I can't wait for spring to come so I can do some more outdoor sessions. I've been going out every few weeks this winter scouting locations I can't wait to shoot at once the 2 feet of snow on my lawn thaws!

A few weeks ago (before the lovely blizzard whited out the landscape), I visited Lake Ronkonkoma for a personal project and realized what a great location it could be for a photo session with families and kids. The county park is located on Lake Shore Road, on the north side of the lake. As Long Island's largest lake, there is a huge number of portrait opportunity spots all along the lake front.

The wildlife in the area is very used to the presence of people, so expect some close encounters with the ducks, geese and seagulls that call the lake their home. They'll be happy to get in the background of your photos!

The table area is another great spot, especially for a family group photo or some candid photos of a picnic lunch. The fields nearby offer a beautiful view. You can also capture some shots of family fun on the baseball field and basketball court. Finally, you can reward your kids for a job well done by spending some time at the playground.

Make sure dear old Dad stays firmly on shore, though. Those Lady of the Lake stories are probably myths, but better to be safe than sorry, right? ;)

I hope you enjoyed this 2nd installment in my series of Best Long Island Photo Spots. Read the 1st installment in the series here.

Contact me at laurapeaphotography@gmail.com to schedule a photo session at your favorite Long Island location, and comment below if you have a great spot I should visit for my next installment!